Claire Haines is very special to our club, she was made an Honorary Member in 1997 due to her always being actively involved with her late husband Peter’s Rotary activity within the club.
After Peter’s retirement, they shifted to Timaru, and both joined the Rotary Club of Timaru North. Claire was awarded a further PHF for her community service in 2004 and served as the President of the Timaru North club in 2004-5 and was then made an Honorary member in 2019.
When she shifted back to Dunedin in 2020, she once again joined Dunedin Rotary, and we have enjoyed her company since that time.
It was with great pleasure and special congratulations that President Katie announced Claire as a life member of our club.
President Katie, Claire Haines and Claire's daughter Sara Paulin.
Sara said 'Mum was very chuffed indeed', and thanked the club for making their day☺️
Following the presentation, Sara said a few words to members to acknowledge the award:
Hello I’m Sara Paulin. Claire’s youngest daughter.
It’s lovely to see mum being recognised for her work with Rotary over the years.
Mothering 7 children then working full time as a teacher she always looked for that little bit extra out of life.
I remember a cool Rotary calendar picture of mum. The September shoot from memory. It is a beautiful shot of her in her tramping gear, pulling out wilding pines. She was always in boots n all. Literally!
Mum also loved the Rotary book fundraisers and especially the dictionaries in schools visits. She is always happy around kids.
Mum has made many lifelong friendships thru Rotary. We hosted an American Rotary Exchange student Maureen Cowperthwaite back in the ‘80s. Mum, Maureen and extended families have since travelled together and are still in close contact.
Mum and the family are very grateful for the support you have given her over the years. Thursday meetings have definitely been a highlight ☺️. She certainly lives the Rotary motto of service above self!
To read more about Claire, follow this link to our December 2023 Bulletin when we celebrated Claire's last formal lunch meeting with the club at our Christmas lunch.
